The other night we had the opportunity to meet some of the Southern church board members. It was a pleasant evening of talking and breaking bread over a traditional Indian meal. We worked on dining with our bare hand (you only use your right hand to eat with). These men and their families have a great desire to see nationals come to the Lord.

Yesterday was a long day for us. After breakfast, we took a long drive to the Kolar Gold Mines. This is a huge area that was once full of people, wealth, work and yes gold. It was once known as little Britain, because of the strong presence they had while mine operations were going on. There were many Christians living there. The mine has since been shut down and the one time employer of many thousands has ceased. Poverty is everywhere. The Christian numbers have dwindled. Many of the people jam on to trains and bus to Bangalore to find employment only to return every night with little or nothing.

We met P. Enoch and went to his local body. It is held in an old broken down building. Upon our arrival we could hear the loud singing from within the building. These people who don't own much were dressed in their fine clothes because we, a small handful of fellow believers were coming to visit them. The building was full of a vast array of colors and detailed saris. It was beautiful hear and watch the people worship.

Some in our group shared testimonies and taught a lesson from 1 Timothy. We also shared some of our songs with the community. It was truly a blessed time for all who were there. After the meeting we had lunch and prayed for the body and its needs.

The ride back to Bangalore was fun and terrifying. We saw monkeys and a few times came close to having a full audience with our Lord in Heaven. Thank you for your prayers for safety, they are much appreciated. 

Upon our return we rested for a short while before our walk to the night's meeting. Believers from around the area and some as far as 90 km came. We filled the small room of the house. Songs were sung in one of the Indian languages and we clapped along. I had the opportunity to play the guitar as accompaniment. That was no small feat as I had never heard the song before and had no music. On the positive side, they sang so loud I don't think anyone heard what I was playing. Once again testimonies were shared and I taught from the book of Joshua. The rest of the evening was spent praying over those in attendance.

My eyes were filling with tears as they would share concerns. I was particularly moved by two men. One was from a hindi background, but now wanted to receive some training so that he would be better prepared to go out and share the Good News. He explained to me the many challenges he has faced since becoming a follower of Christ. The other young man just wanted me to pray over him for a passion to follow Christ with all he was. How often is this simply prayer forgotten by ourselves.

Today is our last full day in Bangalore. Tomorrow evening we will head out to our next location. This morning is a rest time for us, if it can even be called that. This evening we will be meeting with some teens and young adults. We are looking forward to it.